Yes, but doesn't compilation also introduce certain restrictions as well (floating point etc...)? Not to mention that it is still XB with all of its inherent limitations (single graphics mode, no direct access to VDP, etc...). While execution speed is important, it's definitely not the only factor here.

Again, I'll go with whatever you guys decide.

Remember that with XB256 many of the XB graphics limitations go away. There is the normal XB screen and also screen2 which offers 256 characters that can be defined. Also sound list processing.

It would not be appropriate so soon after the 4K competition, but the idea of a MiniMemory competition is really appealing to me. Assembly gurus are limited to 4K, but you can have around 13K of memory to program in BASIC which would put a smile on Opry's face and act as an equalizer between the languages. Or you could use BASIC with assembly support routines such as 40 column mode.

Not for the present time, but perhaps it could be considered sometime in the future.